Resilient Marco Penge earns share of lead at Genesis Invitational - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Steve Galluzzo

February 21, 2026

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Marco Penge emerged as a strong contender at the Genesis Invitational after a standout performance on Friday. Despite an extended day due to darkness halting play on Thursday, Penge delivered a bogey-free 64 in his second round, finishing with birdies on five of the last seven holes. This impressive display earned him a share of the lead alongside Jacob Bridgeman, both sitting at 12 under par heading into the weekend. Penge's resilience was evident as he navigated challenging conditions and a compressed schedule that saw him complete 27 holes over two days. His ability to stay focused and aggressive on the back nine showcased his adaptability and experience on the DP World Tour, where he secured three wins last year to earn his PGA Tour card. Penge acknowledged the difficulty of competing against top players like Rory McIlroy but praised his course management skills. Bridgeman also made a significant impact, carding a 64 that included an eagle and eight birdies. His momentum from Thursday carried him through, and he expressed excitement about being in contention. Meanwhile, McIlroy remained close behind at six under, while Adam Scott's strong performance with two eagles and five birdies pushed him into fourth place. The tournament also featured notable performances from Xander Schauffele, who despite fatigue from a long day of play, remained tied for fourth alongside world No. 13 Xander Schauffele. Aaron Rai briefly led but dropped back after a bogey at the final hole. The event's unique layout and weather conditions were highlighted by players, with many praising the course's pristine condition. As the competition heats up over the weekend, Penge and Bridgeman will need to maintain their momentum. With top players like McIlroy and Scott in pursuit, every shot will count as they aim for victory. The Genesis Invitational offers a thrilling mix of skill, strategy, and endurance, making it a must-watch event for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026